SDS Max Drill Bits

About SDS Max Drill Bits

SDS Max drill bits and chisels represent the heavy-duty end of masonry drilling and demolition equipment, designed specifically for the most demanding professional applications. Unlike their smaller SDS Plus counterparts, SDS Max tools feature a larger 18mm shank diameter and deliver significantly greater impact energy, making them indispensable for industrial-scale concrete drilling, heavy demolition work, and large-scale construction projects. The SDS Max system provides a robust connection between rotary hammers and drill bits or chisels, enabling tool-free bit changes whilst maintaining exceptional power transmission for breaking through reinforced concrete, asphalt, and masonry.

The range available from Tooled-Up.com encompasses both drilling and chiselling applications, with products designed for specific tasks including pointed chisels for precision demolition work, flat chisels for surface removal, spade chisels for cable channels, and specialist masonry drill bits featuring advanced carbide cutting geometries. Professional brands such as Bosch Professional, DeWalt, Makita, and Milwaukee dominate this category, each offering proprietary technologies like dust extraction capabilities, self-sharpening designs, and reinforced carbide tips that extend tool life even in the harshest working conditions.

Modern SDS Max drill bits incorporate sophisticated engineering features including multi-flute designs for faster drilling, hollow core construction for dust removal, and asymmetric carbide head configurations that reduce vibration whilst improving drilling speed. Chisels similarly benefit from heat-treated steel construction and optimised tip geometries that maintain sharpness through repeated impacts, whilst compatibility with all SDS Max rotary hammers ensures versatility across different tool brands and models.

Jargon Buster

• SDS Max Shank: An 18mm diameter shank system with deep grooves that lock securely into compatible rotary hammers, allowing tool-free bit changes whilst transmitting high impact energy for heavy-duty applications.
• Carbide Head: The hardened cutting tip made from tungsten carbide, a compound significantly harder than steel, which maintains its cutting edge when drilling through concrete, brick, and masonry materials.
• Four-Cutter Geometry: Advanced drill bit designs featuring four cutting edges arranged asymmetrically to reduce vibration, increase drilling speed, and improve core removal compared to traditional two-cutter designs.
• Dust Extraction: Integrated channels within drill bits that connect to vacuum systems, removing debris as drilling progresses to improve visibility, reduce dust inhalation risks, and extend bit life.
• Self-Sharpening Design: Chisel geometries engineered so that the working edge reforms itself through use, maintaining cutting efficiency without requiring manual sharpening or frequent replacement.
• Impact Energy: Measured in joules, this specification indicates the force delivered with each hammer blow, with SDS Max systems typically delivering 5-20 joules compared to 2-4 joules for SDS Plus tools.

Who Uses SDS Max Drill Bits?

• Demolition Contractors: Professionals specialising in structural demolition, concrete breaking, and building strip-out work requiring maximum impact power
• Construction Site Workers: Groundworkers and general builders tackling foundations, concrete formwork removal, and heavy masonry drilling on commercial projects
• Highway Maintenance Teams: Operatives breaking asphalt, removing road surfaces, and creating trenches for utilities and drainage systems
• Utilities Installation Specialists: Tradespeople installing large-diameter pipes, cables, and infrastructure requiring substantial core drilling through concrete structures
• Civil Engineering Contractors: Professionals working on bridges, tunnels, and infrastructure projects involving reinforced concrete drilling and modification
• Plant Hire Companies: Equipment rental businesses maintaining comprehensive accessory stocks for SDS Max rotary hammers and breakers
• Industrial Maintenance Engineers: Factory and facility maintenance teams performing structural repairs, equipment installation, and concrete surface preparation

How to Choose the Right SDS Max Drill Bits

Application Type: Determine whether you require drilling bits for creating holes or chisels for demolition work. Drilling applications benefit from spiral flute designs with carbide tips, whilst demolition tasks require pointed, flat, or spade chisels depending on the material removal pattern needed. Consider specialist options like asphalt cutters, gouging chisels, or tile removal chisels for specific applications.

Diameter and Length: SDS Max drill bits at Tooled-Up range from 12mm to 80mm diameter, with lengths extending beyond 1000mm for deep drilling applications. Larger diameters and extended lengths place greater demands on both the tool and operator, so ensure your rotary hammer delivers sufficient impact energy and that you can safely manage the tool's weight during extended use.

Material Compatibility: Different bits suit different substrates—standard masonry bits handle brick and blockwork, whilst concrete-specific designs feature reinforced carbide for drilling through steel reinforcement bars. Asphalt cutters incorporate specialised geometries for road surfaces, and hollow core bits with dust extraction prove invaluable when drilling regulations require dust suppression.

Brand Quality and Technology: Professional brands like Bosch Professional's Expert range with 8X technology, DeWalt's extreme masonry bits, and Makita's professional accessories offer superior durability and performance compared to budget alternatives. Features like four-cutter heads, self-sharpening edges, and dust extraction compatibility justify higher initial costs through extended service life and improved productivity.

Compatibility and Standards: Verify that bits meet relevant British and European standards (BS EN) for industrial use and confirm compatibility with your specific rotary hammer model. Whilst SDS Max is a standardised system, some specialist bits may have power requirements or impact energy specifications that suit particular tool ranges.

Popular Accessories

• Dust Extraction Systems: Vacuum attachments and industrial extractors for compliance with HSE dust control regulations
• Chisel Grease: Specialist lubricants reducing friction and heat build-up in the shank mechanism during intensive chiselling operations
• Depth Stops and Gauges: Precision measuring accessories ensuring consistent hole depths across multiple drilling operations
• Drill Bit Extensions: Extended reach adaptors for drilling beyond the standard bit length whilst maintaining stability
• Tool Storage Cases: Robust carrying solutions protecting expensive SDS Max bits during transport between sites
• Sharpening Kits: Diamond wheels and grinding accessories for restoring carbide cutting edges when performance diminishes
• Safety Equipment: Hearing protection, safety goggles, dust masks (FFP3 rated), and anti-vibration gloves essential for prolonged SDS Max tool operation

Safety Information

SDS Max drilling and chiselling generates significant vibration exposure, placing operators at risk of Hand-Arm Vibration Syndrome (HAVS). The Health and Safety Executive mandates exposure monitoring and control measures including equipment with low vibration values, anti-vibration gloves, limiting continuous use periods, and maintaining tools in optimal condition. Always consult your rotary hammer's vibration specifications and implement appropriate work-rest cycles.

Respiratory protection remains critical when drilling masonry materials, as concrete dust contains crystalline silica linked to serious lung conditions. Use dust extraction systems wherever possible and wear FFP3-rated respiratory protection when dry drilling cannot be avoided. Ensure adequate ventilation in enclosed spaces and comply with COSHH regulations regarding hazardous substance exposure.

Inspect SDS Max bits before each use for cracks, excessive wear, or damaged shanks that could fail under high impact loads. Secure workpieces properly to prevent movement during drilling, maintain firm two-handed control of the rotary hammer, and position yourself to avoid injury if the bit binds unexpectedly. Wear appropriate personal protective equipment including safety boots, hearing protection, and impact-resistant eye protection rated to BS EN 166.

Frequently Asked Questions

What's the difference between SDS Max and SDS Plus drill bits?

SDS Max bits feature an 18mm shank diameter compared to 10mm for SDS Plus, delivering substantially higher impact energy (typically 5-20 joules versus 2-4 joules). This makes SDS Max suitable for heavy-duty demolition and large-diameter concrete drilling, whilst SDS Plus handles general masonry drilling and light chiselling. The systems are not interchangeable—each requires a matching rotary hammer chuck.

Can I use SDS Max bits in an SDS Plus drill?

No, SDS Max and SDS Plus are incompatible systems with different shank diameters and groove configurations. Attempting to use adapters compromises safety and performance, as SDS Plus tools lack the impact energy and mechanical strength to safely operate SDS Max accessories. Always match the bit system to your rotary hammer specification.

How long should an SDS Max drill bit last?

Lifespan depends heavily on application, material hardness, and operator technique. Professional-grade bits from brands like Bosch Professional or Milwaukee can drill hundreds of holes in standard concrete, whilst hitting steel reinforcement or using excessive pressure dramatically reduces longevity. Properly maintained bits with adequate lubrication and appropriate drilling speed typically provide months of professional use before requiring replacement.

Do I need dust extraction when using SDS Max drill bits?

Dust extraction is strongly recommended and often legally required under HSE workplace regulations, particularly for prolonged drilling operations. Concrete dust contains harmful crystalline silica, and cumulative exposure causes serious respiratory conditions. Many modern SDS Max bits incorporate dust extraction channels, and Tooled-Up stocks compatible vacuum systems that dramatically reduce airborne dust whilst improving drilling visibility and bit cooling.

Why are SDS Max chisels more expensive than drill bits?

Quality chisels undergo extensive heat treatment and precision forging to withstand thousands of high-energy impacts without fracturing or deforming. Self-sharpening designs require complex metallurgy and geometry, whilst specialist profiles like gouging or tile removal chisels involve additional manufacturing processes. The durability and performance of professional chisels justify their cost through extended service life and superior demolition efficiency compared to budget alternatives.